Take a scenic ferry ride from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, a small island with crystal-clear waters and a laid-back atmosphere. Rent a golf cart to explore the island's breathtaking beaches, such as North Beach and Playa Lancheros, and stop by the colorful and quirky Punta Sur Sculpture Garden. End your day with a stunning sunset view at the famous Playa Norte.
Take a ferry to Cozumel, one of the best places in the world for scuba diving and snorkeling. Choose from a variety of dive spots with brightly colored coral and diverse marine life, such as Palancar Reef and Columbia Shallows. After your dive/snorkel, enjoy some fresh seafood and margaritas at one of the island's beachside restaurants.
Take a day trip to Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, an ancient Mayan city with impressive architectural feats like the Kukulkan Pyramid. After exploring the ruins, refresh yourself with a dip in the nearby Cenote Ik Kil, a stunning sinkhole with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and cliff jumping.
Spend a leisurely day on Playa Delfines, a wide and uncrowded beach with scenic views, soft sand, and turquoise waters. After soaking up the sun, visit the nearby El Rey Ruins, a small but fascinating archaeological site with ruins of Mayan buildings and a large iguana population.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure by swimming with gentle whale sharks in the clear waters around Isla Holbox. Marvel at the size and grace of these magnificent creatures and snap some unforgettable photos. After your swim, explore the charming island and its colorful murals, cute cafes, and unique handicrafts.
Get your adrenaline pumping with zip lining and ATV riding in Selvatica, an eco-park with thrilling outdoor activities. Soar over the jungle canopy with spectacular views, and then race through the dirt trails and mud pits on an ATV. After your adventures, cool off with a refreshing swim in a cenote or a cold beer in the park's restaurant.
Discover the boho-chic town of Tulum and its stunning beach and ruins. Lounge on the Instagram-worthy white sand beach with clear waters and swaying palm trees, and then visit the nearby Tulum Ruins, an ancient Mayan city with picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea. End your day with a delicious lunch at one of the town's trendy restaurants.
Take a break from adventure and indulge in some shopping and dining at La Isla Mall, a modern and spacious mall with over 100 stores and restaurants. Browse for souvenirs, clothes, and accessories, and then treat yourself to some Mexican cuisine or international flavors.
Escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet at Xpu-Ha Beach, a secluded and beautiful stretch of sand and sea. Rent a beach chair and umbrella or bring your own, and savor the serenity and beauty of nature. Take a stroll on the beach, swim in the calm waters, or read a book under a palm tree.
Discover the natural wonders of Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Take a guided tour through the lush jungles, mangroves, and lagoons, and spot animals like dolphins, manatees, monkeys, and crocodiles. Learn about Mayan history and culture, and appreciate the importance of conservation and sustainability.
Get a taste of local life and culture by exploring Downtown Cancun and its vibrant markets and shops. Walk through Parque Las Palapas, a central square with food vendors and entertainment, and then head to Mercado 28, a bustling and colorful market with handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Bargain with the vendors and try some delicious tacos, empanadas, or churros.
Experience the beauty and fun of Isla Mujeres from a different perspective by sailing and snorkeling around the island. Join a catamaran or sailboat tour, and snorkel in the warm and clear waters near the island's reefs, such as Manchones and El Farito. Enjoy a cold beer or margarita on the boat, and admire the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Swim with sea turtles and explore an underwater cave system in Akumal Beach and Cenote Dos Ojos. Rent a snorkel or book a tour to snorkel with the friendly green and hawksbill turtles in the shallow waters of Half Moon Bay. Then, head to Cenote Dos Ojos, a deep and mystical sinkhole with crystal-clear waters and stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. Dive or snorkel with a guide and discover a hidden world of beauty and wonder.
Unwind and rejuvenate your body and soul with yoga at Xcacel Beach, a peaceful and pristine beach with a natural pool and a turtle sanctuary. Attend a morning yoga class on the beach, led by experienced and friendly instructors, and then soak in the sun, watch the birds, or read a book. Take a dip in the refreshing freshwater lagoon, and visit the turtle nests and hatchery.
Sadly, it's time to leave Cancun and its stunning beauty and hospitality. Check out of your hotel, and say goodbye to the warm and friendly staff. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping, dining, or sightseeing. Take one last look at the turquoise waters and white beaches, and promise to come back soon.
For the most comfortable and convenient transportation during your Cancun trip, it's recommended to rent a car or hire a private driver. This way, you can explore the destinations at your own pace and avoid the hassle of public transportation or taxi negotiations. A rental car costs around $25-$50 per day, and a private driver costs around $60-$100 per day or $200-$300 for a full-day tour. However, be aware that driving in Mexico can be challenging, especially in crowded areas or rural roads. Always wear your seatbelt, follow traffic rules, and be aware of your surroundings. Alternatively, you can book a tour with a reputable operator or use public transportation, such as buses or ferries, to access some destinations. Keep in mind that public transportation can be crowded, slow, and irregular, so plan accordingly.
If you have more time in Cancun, consider adding some of these activities:
If you have less time in Cancun, consider subtracting some of these activities:
The main airport in Cancun is Cancun International Airport (CUN), located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the hotel zone and 15 kilometers (9 miles) from downtown Cancun. CUN is the second-busiest airport in Mexico, serving many domestic and international airlines, such as American Airlines, Delta, United, Aeromexico, and Interjet. The airport has four terminals and offers many amenities, such as duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and car rentals. To get to/from the airport, you can take a taxi, an airport shuttle, a private transfer, or a public bus. The cost and time of transportation depend on your destination and mode of transport.